While Tracker takes a distinctive approach to the procedural genre, there is one significant adjustment that could enhance the show’s appeal: integrating Colter Shaw’s team into the field more frequently. Based on Jeffrey Deaver’s novel series The Never Game, Tracker follows Justin Hartley’s character, Colter Shaw, across the United States as he searches for missing persons, earning rewards for his efforts.
Tracker has enjoyed considerable success on CBS, captivating audiences with its intriguing mysteries and an overarching storyline that delves into Colter’s personal history, particularly highlighted in the season 2 finale. However, the series often sees Colter operating solo in the field, despite having a capable support team. By involving his support network more actively in his investigations, the character dynamics could be significantly enriched.
Colter Only Interacting With Velma And Bobby In Phone Calls Shortchanges The Tracker Cast
The Actors Do Not Actually Work Together Often
Colter Shaw, portrayed by Justin Hartley, frequently finds himself in new locations during each episode. Although he revisits some places, the show’s structure largely centers around his movement, often placing him in remote settings while he manages cases with a trailer in tow. In contrast, his support network members, including lawyer Reenie (Fiona Rene) and handlers Velma (Abby McEnany), are based in their respective offices.
This separation results in limited interactions among the cast members, primarily relying on phone calls to relay essential information about cases. While this dynamic fosters a friendship between Reenie and Velma and a sibling-like rivalry between Bobby (Eric Graise) and Randy (Chris Lee), the lack of combined physical presence inhibits the potential for diverse character dynamics and rich storylines.
Tracker’s Most Compelling Cases Featured Colter’s Team On The Ground
Bobby, Randy, And Reenie All Made It Into The Field Briefly
Even though Colter largely traverses the field solo, he has collaborated with recurring characters, including Billie (Hartley’s real-life spouse, Sofia Pernas). Notable episodes highlight moments when Colter’s teammates, like Bobby, Randy, and Reenie, join him in the field, typically due to a personal connection to the case at hand.
During episodes where Colter teams up with his support network, such as when Randy seeks help to locate a missing friend, the narrative deepens, showcasing character backstories and emotional stakes. Moreover, when Reenie becomes a victim herself, the plot intensifies, giving Colter personal motivation. Despite not wanting these characters to frequently fall into the damsel-in-distress trope, these moments emphasize the personal stakes and emotional connections that enrich the overall storyline.
Tracker Season 3 Should Get Colter’s Team To Join Him More Frequently
Tracker Should Capitalize On The Cast Chemistry
As Tracker prepares for season 3, there is an opportunity to enhance viewer engagement by integrating Colter’s support team in field operations more frequently. Characters like Reenie and Randy have exhibited willingness to drop their commitments and join Colter at a moment’s notice, showcasing their strong chemistry and collaborative potential. The show should leverage this chemistry to its advantage instead of maintaining a separation among characters.
While it may not be feasible for all team members to be present every week, featuring one or more of them in the field regularly would greatly enhance character development and foster audience investment in the unfolding narratives.
How Velma, Reenie, Bobby & Randy Can Be More Involved With Colter’s Operations In Tracker Season 3
Colter’s Cases Could Bring Him Closer To His Team
In order to increase engagement and collaboration among Colter’s team, season 3 should consider relocating part of Colter’s investigations to areas where his teammates are more accessible. Instead of always bringing the team to Colter, the narrative could explore ways for Colter to operate in cities where his colleagues reside.
This shift would allow for more meaningful interactions and character arcs, as Colter could utilize Reenie’s legal knowledge, Velma’s insights, and the technical expertise of Bobby and Randy during extended storylines. By allowing Colter to remain in one location over several episodes, viewers would witness how these characters work together, creating an opportunity for multi-part arcs that could deepen the overall narrative and character connections.